Throughout 2024–2025, farmers in Lithuania and across Europe have repeatedly warned the European Union about dangerous political decisions: excessive regulation that restricts agricultural initiative, unclear CAP and EU budget reforms, and the push to conclude unacceptable trade agreements such as the one with Mercosur. Yet, as the end of 2025 approaches, farmers’ expectations remain unmet.
On 24 November, the Council of the Lithuanian Chamber of Agriculture unanimously decided to join the Europe-wide protest initiated by Copa-Cogeca, which will take place on 18 December 2025 (Thursday), from 12:00 to 16:00.
The protest is being organised just hours before European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen’s trip to Brazil, where the Mercosur agreement is expected to be finalised, and at the same time when EU Heads of State and Government gather for a crucial European Council meeting on the future EU budget.
Copa-Cogeca has already announced that around forty farmers’ organisations from across Europe have confirmed their participation. Around 10,000 farmers are expected to deliver a clear and united message to the European Commission: farmers can no longer accept empty promises and political rhetoric.
LAC President Dr. Arūnas Svitojus: “This is the breaking point for Europe’s farmers”
“Lithuanian farmers work honestly and responsibly, but today they have little left to trust when decisions are taken behind their backs. Unacceptable trade deals, excessive obligations, and the constant erosion of financial support are blows not only to farmers but also to food security and the future of rural communities. The 18 December protest is the breaking point for farmers across Europe. We must be seen and heard,” says LAC President Dr. Arūnas Svitojus.
According to him, Lithuania will join this common effort because “when the essential questions of farmers’ future are at stake, remaining silent would be irresponsible.”
Clear and unequivocal protest demands
Farmers across Europe are calling for:
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A strong, unified and properly funded CAP after 2027
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Fair and transparent trade rules that protect EU standards and the most sensitive sectors
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Real simplification, better regulation and legal clarity that allow farmers to work rather than fill in paperwork
The Lithuanian Chamber of Agriculture (LAC) will inform the public and farmers about detailed protest arrangements and organisational decisions in the near future.
Protest slogan: “Enough smokes and mirrors”.